Description

This Jalapeño Popper Bagels recipe combines crispy bacon, creamy cheese, and spicy jalapeños for a deliciously savory snack or breakfast treat. The creamy cheese mixture, loaded with shredded white cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, is spread generously over toasted bagel halves and baked until warm and bubbly, then topped with fresh jalapeño slices for an extra kick.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat

5 slices bacon

Cheese & Dairy

8 oz. cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded white cheddar
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack, divided (1/2 cup for mix, 1/2 cup for topping)

Vegetables & Spices

2 jalapeños, minced
1 jalapeño, thinly sliced for garnish
1 tsp. garlic powder
Kosher salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Bakery

3 bagels, halved

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Instructions

Preheat and Cook Bacon: Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Meanwhile, cook the bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat until they are crispy. Once done, transfer onto paper towels to drain excess grease and chop into small pieces once cooled.
Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded white cheddar, half of the shredded Monterey Jack (1/2 cup), minced jalapeños, garlic powder, chopped bacon, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated to create a flavorful, creamy spread.
Assemble the Bagels: Take the bagels and slice them in half horizontally. Spread the prepared cream cheese mixture generously over each bagel half, ensuring an even layer for maximum flavor.
Top and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining Monterey Jack cheese (1/2 cup) evenly over the cream cheese spread on each bagel half. Place the assembled bagels on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven until warmed through and the cheese has melted, approximately 10-12 minutes.
Garnish and Serve: Remove the bagels from the oven and garnish with thinly sliced jalapeño rings on top for added heat and visual appeal. Serve warm for the best experience.

Notes

You can adjust the amount of jalapeños to control the spice level.
Substitute bacon with turkey bacon for a leaner option.
For extra crunch, toast the bagels lightly before adding the cream cheese mixture.
Use full-fat cream cheese for a richer taste.
This recipe reheats well in the oven or toaster oven for leftovers.